Snow as far as the eye csan see (illustrative
Snow as far as the eye csan see (illustrativeBen Waxman

In the wake of the recent winter storm that hit Israel, tens of thousands went without electricity for days during freezing cold weather. For them, losing power was a major inconvenience – but it gave them insight into the ways many residents of new communities in Judea and Samaria, also known as outposts, live all year round.

Many of us lived without electricity for five days, but there are families in these communities, like Geulat Zion, Maoz Esther and Ramat Migron, who live without electricity all year. Many of these families have children and infants,” said activist Meir Bertler.

“I don't know how they get along, apparently they have great bravery and discipline. In any event, we are trying to get them electricity,” he said.

Bertler, who works with residents of many established communities and new communities, said that it may take some time to repair all the damage done by the storm to the electrical grid, as well as to connect communities that have never had electricity. “There is a lot of repairing to do in communities throughout Judea and Samaria, with some structures falling down, fallen trees, and damage to agriculture.” Pathways to barns and storehouses have been upended, and water and gas infrastructures still need work as well, he said.

Bertler thanked the IDF for its help in working with all communities in Judea and Samaria during the recent storm. “Helicopters brought in generators, among other supplies, and the army did not differentiate between established towns and outposts, helping all people in all places. The IDF system worked properly and I want to thank all the soldiers and officers who helped," he said.